NEW ORLEANS - District "D" Councilmember Jared C. Brossett will join Mayor LaToya Cantrell, Dillard University administrators; City, State and Federal officials and community partners to celebrate the completion of large-scale drainage improvements on Dillard's campus, funded through the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP). The ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place today at 3 p.m. near the flagpole located at the center of Dillard's campus (2601 Gentilly Blvd, New Orleans, LA 70122).  

The $6,500,000 project funded through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, includes improvement of the drainage system on the Dillard's campus to alleviate flooding from smaller-intensity, higher-frequency storms. The drainage improvement features include installation of a larger subsurface drainage system, widening of the existing bio-swale in the rear-most portion of the campus, detention storage features, and the improvement of the Mandolin Canal and discharge pipe into the City drainage system.

The project's completion greatly increases both the University's and the entire City of New Orleans' ability to adapt and overcome future hazardous events while providing an enhanced experience for both students and staff alike.

Councilmember Brossett said, "I am extremely proud to celebrate the completion of this critical project, which represents a huge step forward for Dillard University and all those living in District D. We've taken great strides to reduce the effects of stormwater and implement new technologies to ensure our resiliency and prosperity moving forward. While there is still much work to be done, I look forward to the widespread positive impacts this project will have for all those in the surrounding communities."

Dillard University Director of Facilities Management Adonis Woods said, "The primary objective of the project is to improve the campus drainage system and enhance its ability to capture, store and convey stormwater runoff during moderate to severe rain events. Implementing the new stormwater drainage system will protect existing buildings, infrastructure, property and daily functions of the University from damages caused by flooding."

Dillard University President Walter Kimbrough said, "We are excited to be leading in this area. As we know handling major rain events has now become critical for the city. Dillard is now providing an opportunity to assist In this regard and for others to learn from this project."

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Contact:

Domonique Dickerson
Chief of Staff
Councilmember Jared C. Brossett, Chair of Budget/Audit/BoR Committee
504-658-1040
dcdickerson@nola.gov